LWVSJ Observer Corps*: Friday Harbor Town Council, July 20, 2023

The Council affirmed Brian Carlson as a new member of the Town Planning Commission. The Council amended the ordinance on Lodging Tax Advisory Committee membership to create an alternate member to sit in the absence of a regular member. They approved Lori Stokes for the alternate position.

The town will propose Tuesday September 19 at 10:00 Am for the joint meeting of the town and county councils. They will work on a list of issues to put on the agenda, including water use at the fairgrounds.

The Town is working on a letter regarding Washington State Ferries to raise concerns and make some requests and suggestions. Once they have an approved draft, they will circulate to the County and other entities to see if they wish to sign. They note that they heard the task force to work on the new ferry schedule has struggled. Its next meeting is scheduled for September 13.

The Council amended the scope of work for Wilson Engineering contract on the Wastewater Treatment Project. As costs came in exceptionally high, they need to explore more options and alternatives.

Public Works reported that the Nash St. project is proceeding on schedule and that bids are coming in to do a small sewer reconnection on Malcolm St.

The Community Development director said changes in state law for Accessory Dwelling Units must be incorporated locally. They need to update the housing action plan to reflect population growth. They will seek a grant for the comprehensive plan update. The public survey on housing reflected the public sees a need for more affordable housing, including cluster housing, mixed residential/commercial use, more 4-6 unit and tiny home development. There was support for design guidelines.

A review of the Housing Needs Assessment showed that growth had been 1.68% versus the previously projected 1.4%. It outlined demographic information and changes in the town. To meet housing needs, 38 new housing units per year will need to be built over the next decade versus the current average of 22 units. For more info: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/9b370393c23b4a9a98fe3070b594247d. 

Future agendas will cover the sale of town water and a request for a crosswalk on Tucker Ave. The meeting was continued to Tuesday July 25 to award a bid for Malcolm Street sewer repairs.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.